Remodeling Contractors

Tips for Finding the Best Remodeling Contractors

When you are looking for home remodeling contractors, there are a few steps you need to take to make sure you are getting the best contractor available.

If you live in Big Bear, California or the surrounding mountain areas, we hope you will give us a call to see what we can do for you. However, if you live outside our service area, we can’t personally help you. Because of this, we have put this page together to help make your search for a remodeling contractor easier.

Let’s get to it:

Plan your project. If you know what you want done and can clearly explain it, you’re less likely to misunderstand instructions or encounter cost overruns.

Interview remodeling contractors. Interview several qualified registered contractors/remodelers and solicit written bids. Evaluate all aspects of the bids, including the scope of work, warranties, references, time frames and price.

Make sure a contractor is registered, actively licensed, with a bond and insurance, and an electrician, plumber, elevator mechanic or manufactured home installer is certified (licensed) in your state.

Check out your home remodeling contractor with the office of the attorney general of your state and the Better Business Bureau.

Ask for and verify references. If possible, view the work, interview the homeowner and visit a site with work in progress.

Learn about what permits you need. Permits are for your safety. They ensure that vital functions of your building have been installed to Building Code Specifications. Do not allow permits to be overlooked.

Check for warning signs of a scam:

• Provides a credential or reference that can’t be verified.• Offers a special price only if you sign today, or use other high-pressure sales techniques.• Only accepts cash, require large deposits or the entire cost up front, or asks you to make the payment in their name.• Does not provide a written contract or complete bid.• Asks you to get the building permit. In most instances, if you have hired a contractor, the contractor is required to take out the permits. Permits are your protection and help ensure that work will meet local building codes.• Offers exceptionally long warrantees.• Wants to do most or all the work on weekends and after hours.• Gives you an offer that sounds “too good to be true.”

Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best deal. A shady contractor can make your life miserable with cheap materials or poor work. There are stories of contractors that take your money and run. Don’t let this happen to you. Before a contractor works on your home, get references and verify registration and licensing.

I know this sounds like a lot that you need to watch out for but a remodeling job can be stressful and you don’t want to add a shady or lazy contractor to your stress. Remember, most remodeling contractors aren’t bad guys, but you need to protect yourself from those that are. Following these simple steps will help make your remodeling project go smoother. Happy remodeling!